By Yoon Sojung

In the fourth conversation between the two leaders, President Moon Jae-in and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Aug. 25 shared a common understanding about the serious security situation on the Korean Peninsula, which includes North Korean nuclear weapons and missile issues.

During the 30-minute conversation requested by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the two leaders agreed on the need to continue strong sanctions and pressure, but also that the nuclear weapons issue needs to be ultimately resolved through dialogue and peaceful means for a complete dismantlement of nuclear missiles. Prime Minister Abe previously requested a telephone conversation with President Moon on Aug. 15 when tensions were escalated by Pyongyang’s belligerent remarks.

The two leaders agreed that Seoul and Tokyo should work closely together and also with the U.S. in order to create the right conditions for dialogue with Pyongyang.

Regarding the relationship between Seoul and Tokyo, the two leaders spoke with one united voice, saying that various efforts, including efforts from both governments, would help develop bilateral ties and that they agreed to work hard to support such activities. Both leaders agreed to hold mutually beneficial dialogue on the sidelines of the upcoming summit in Vladivostok, Russia, in September when the Eastern Economic Forum is to be held.

arete@korea.kr